Figuring the Total Cost of Training

By any measurement, the total cost of training using Manta CBT is significantly less that that of any other training method. The following are typical costs for a new operator, comparing the Introduction to the IBM i Environment and the Manta Fundamentals of IBM i Operations series to a four-day classroom course covering the same topics.

Manta CBT courses

License for CBT courses:	$1,910
Student time (20 hours @ $40/hour)	$800
Total for first student:	$2,710
Total for each additional student:	$800

Class

Class fee:	$1,995
Student time (4 days @ $40/hour)	$1,280
Airfare	$400
Hotel (4 nights)	$500
Meals, etc.	$240
Total for first student:	$4,415
Total for each additional student:	$4,415

Even with this simple analysis, several lessons stand out: First, travel and lodging expenses are a significant part of the cost of lecture-based courses. If you cannot attend a course in your own city, self-study courses are a significantly cheaper alternative.

Second, the student's time is a major part of the overall cost.  Self-study training can eliminate travel time and significantly reduce the time needed to complete a course.  With Manta CBT, students can typically learn the same material in half the time of a lectured-based course.  One reason is that a student can proceed at his or her own pace rather than the pace of the slowest student in the class.  Another reason is that IT professionals tend to be "visual learners," who absorb CBT materials at a pace much faster than a lecturer can speak. 

Finally, the cost for training additional students is dramatically less with Manta CBT.  In the example, the Manta series saves $1,705 for the first student, and $3,615 for each additional student. 

When you figure that Manta CBT courses can be taken repeatedly ¾ at work or at home when the student's schedule permits ¾  the decision becomes a "no-brainer."  Using Manta CBT saves big bucks.